Ten outstanding Orange Countians who have left an indelible mark on OC’s cultural, societal, and professional landscape were officially inducted into the 2023 Inaugural Class of the Orange County Hall of Fame.
Chaired by Orange County Supervisor Donald P. Wagner, Third District, and emceed by Wagner himself along with Supervisor Andrew Do, First District, and Supervisor Katrina Foley, Fifth District, the inaugural induction ceremony celebrated outstanding achievements across five categories: Music, Arts & Entertainment; Sports; Business; Philanthropy; and Civics.
“It was a pleasure to work with Supervisor Andrew Do to create the Orange County Hall of Fame that honors so many amazing people who have positively impacted our beloved county,” remarked Chairman Donald P. Wagner.
Among the distinguished honorees present at the ceremony were Gwen Stefani, Frank Jao, Greg Louganis, and Amanda Beard. Family members of honorees Walt Disney, General William Lyon, and Henry Segerstrom accepted the honor on behalf of their loved ones. While Kobe Bryant, Bill Medley, and Tiger Woods couldn’t attend, a heartfelt video message from them was played during the ceremony.
“Orange County has so much to be proud of. These first inductees and their special achievements truly deserve recognition by the people of Orange County,” expressed Vice Chairman Doug Chaffee, Fourth District. “I applaud Chairman Wagner and former Vice Chairman Do for their efforts to create our Hall of Fame.”
In early 2023, Board of Supervisors Chairman Don Wagner and former Vice Chairman Andrew Do formed a subcommittee to develop and establish the Orange County Hall of Fame. The unanimous vote of the Board of Supervisors on November 28, 2023, officially established the Orange County Hall of Fame to acknowledge and honor selected individuals.
“Orange County, nestled in the heart of Southern California, has evolved into a global force, prominent in international business, culture, technology, philanthropy, music, and the arts,” highlighted Supervisor Andrew Do, First District. “The Orange County Hall of Fame will commemorate Orange County’s past and present as we inspire the next generation of residents to achieve remarkable success.”
Supervisor Foley added, “The Orange County Hall of Fame serves as a reminder that Orange County’s trailblazers shape our nation’s history, culture, and economy. The inaugural class celebrates some of Orange County’s best, including Henry Segerstrom, Kobe Bryant, Amanda Beard, General William Lyon, and Bill Medley, who have all called District 5 home.”
The Orange County Hall of Fame will find its home at the County Administration North (CAN) Building, and the induction ceremony took place in the Board Hearing Room. For those who missed the live event, a recording is available for viewing at www.ocgov.com/halloffame.
